By Muslimat Itopa
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, on Monday Inaugurated the DAM Foundation Civic Recreation Complex in Okene, describing the project as a landmark investment in youth development, community empowerment and non-kinetic approaches to tackling insecurity.
Speaking at the unveiling, Governor Ododo said the project exemplifies responsible leadership focused on future generations.
He commended the founder of the DAM Foundation, Dr. Abdullahi Mustafa, for demonstrating that true leadership is rooted in service, youth empowerment and the creation of opportunities for growth.
“This is a great example of community development. This elite centre stands as a practical expression of leadership that uplifts lives, invests in our youth and builds platforms for talent and innovation,” the governor said.
Governor Ododo also acknowledged the purposeful leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, with its emphasis on inclusive governance, human capital development and social investment, provides strong national support for initiatives that complement government efforts at all levels.
He formally entrusted the facility to the DAM Foundation under the stewardship of Dr. Mustafa, expressing confidence that the centre would drive human capital development, nurture talent, attract sporting excellence and stimulate local economic activities for years to come.
The governor further applauded the commissioning of a 100-bed capacity hostel within the complex, describing it as a highly commendable addition that would benefit athletes and the wider community.
He said the project clearly demonstrates the power of public-private partnership in accelerating development and empowering communities.
“This initiative is a non-kinetic approach to fighting insecurity. We cannot blame our youths for drifting into crime if we fail to provide credible alternatives.
I urge young people to use this centre responsibly for self-development and positive engagement,” Ododo said, while encouraging corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to emulate the foundation’s example.
Earlier, the Director-General of the Energy Commission of Nigeria and founder of the DAM Foundation, Doctor. Abdullahi Mustafa, said the complex was established to redirect youth energy toward productive and constructive activities.
According to him, the DAM Foundation was created to promote community development and youth empowerment, based on the belief that sustainable development begins when people at the grassroots are equipped with the right tools, opportunities and support systems.
“This location was once idle and had become a gathering point for non-constructive activities. Today, the narrative has changed. This complex is our deliberate response to that challenge a place to engage minds, nurture talents and channel energies towards productivity,” Mustafa said.
He revealed that the foundation has facilitated job creation for hundreds of youths, awarded scholarships to deserving students, and implemented human capital development programmes that equip beneficiaries with market-ready skills.
Doctor Mustafa disclosed that over 100 children from across the country have been admitted into the DAM Foundation camp, marking the commencement of the 2025 DAM Foundation Basketball Championship.
He also announced the recent training of about 1,000 youths and women in ICT and craft skills, adding that certificates, computers and essential tools would be distributed to participants.
“The DAM Foundation Civic Centre is not only for sports. It is envisioned as a hub for capacity building, empowerment programmes, mentorship and leadership development.With this facility, Kogi State is ready to host national sporting activities,” he said.
The Ohinoyi of Ebiraland and Vice Chairman of the Kogi State Traditional Council, HRH Alhaji Ahmed Tijani Anaje thanked Governor Ododo for attending the event and praised Doctor Mustafa for the initiative, describing the complex as “a gift for generations unborn.”
He urged youths to utilize the centre for its intended purpose and called on other sons and daughters of Ebiraland to emulate Doctor Mustafa’s philanthropic gesture.
Some beneficiaries, including Onotu Muhammad and Mercy Adeiza, told journalists that the empowerment programmes had positively impacted their lives.
They said participants were trained in areas such as bricklaying, ICT and crafts, received workplace safety training, and were empowered with tools, personal protective equipment and other working materials to scale up their businesses.
The event also featured a medical outreach, offering free eye, nose and throat services, general medical check-ups and free drugs to members of the community.
The Inauguration drew government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders, youths and stakeholders, marking a significant milestone in community-driven development in Kogi State.
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